How to Make a Stevia Liquid Extract

Stevia rebaudiana, commonly known as sweetleaf, sweet leaf, sugarleaf, or simply stevia, is widely grown for its sweet leaves. As a sweetener and sugar substitute, stevia's taste has a slower onset and longer duration than that of sugar. ` wikipedia

Stevia is a natural sweetener with 0 calories that is unfermentable and does not provoke an insulin response for diabetics. It can be boiled or steeped in leaf form to sweeten teas, beverages and in cooking. Commercial liquid extracts are available (highly potent) through stores like GNC. Powdered single-serving packets can usually be found in supermarkets next to the Splenda or in the tea/powdered drink isle.

This video shows you how to make a tincture (liquid extract) out of stevia leaves

STEVIA: A SWEET CONTROVERSY

Picture: ingredient-supply.com

Stevia is a shrub-like herb that has been used for centuries for its ability to sweeten food without adding calories. Amidst America’s burgeoning health crises, stevia’s unique qualities serve a dual role: it provides a zero calorie alternative to sugar and it contains none of the artificial and dangerous chemicals that come with using commercial artificial sweeteners. One of the biggest health benefits of stevia is that it has no effect on blood sugar levels, which makes it a great choice for diabetics. 

Stevia is actually roughly four times the strength of conventional sugar and sweeteners, so a little goes a long way which makes it a more economical choice as well.